Incredible refraction

The exhibit cleverly utilizes various devices to showcase the phenomenon of light refraction: a water tank simulates the refraction path of light at different media interfaces following Snell's law, displaying changes in the direction of light rays; Crystal balls serve as convex lenses, reflecting wall patterns and demonstrating the convergence of light at spherical interfaces; Comparing the effects of solid and hollow cylindrical tubes on light, the solid part appears to be a straight line through which light passes, but in reality, it does not refract due to opacity; The curved path of the arrow shaped pattern inside the hollow part directly reflects the refraction effect of the cylindrical wall on light rays.

The unit is designed for unsupervised public use: controls are recessed or shielded, moving parts are enclosed, and the interface is operable by a child of about six with no instruction. Where a screen is used, the language can be switched without changing the hardware, and the content can be replaced on site.